Hailee's POV
Nathan's voice was sharp. "Let him in."
The guard left, and soon the big doors opened. My heart jumped so hard it hurt. Frederick walked in. He was tall, strong, and his presence filled the room. But the moment his eyes met mine, they changed. They softened.
"Hailee," he said, and in a blink he crossed the room. His arms wrapped around me tight, pulling me into him.
"Why did you leave?" His voice shook — angry and sad at the same time. "I looked everywhere for you. You vanished. Do you know what that did to me?"
I froze. His hug pressed against me, heavy and full of demand. Guilt crushed my chest. I wanted to speak, but no words came out.
Then a loud growl filled the room.
Nathan stepped forward fast. He shoved Frederick off me so hard the floor seemed to shake. "Don't touch her," Nathan barked, his eyes glowing with his wolf. He stood tall and fierce, placing himself between us.
Frederick straightened, his jaw tight, but his gaze stayed locked on me.
